PhD Student in Public Economics / PhD Studentess in Public Economics

PhD Student Position in Public Economics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich is the leading institute for applied research in economics in Switzerland. KOF conducts well-founded and independent research on the Swiss and international economy, addressing structural and economic policy issues of social relevance.

Job Description

The PhD position is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF) through the project titled The Economics of Inheritance and Inter-Vivos Gifts. This project is led by Dr. Isabel Z. Martínez at ETH and Prof. Marius Brülhart at the University of Lausanne, with contributions from associated researchers Aurélien Eyquem (HEC Lausanne) and Enrico Rubolino (HEC Lausanne and CREST Paris).

This project aims to explore questions related to inheritance flows, inter-vivos gifts, bequest motives, and taxation. As a PhD candidate, you will be involved in all stages of the research process, ranging from data cleaning to analysis, results visualization, and drafting the final research paper.

The position will be based at the KOF Institute at ETH Zurich. You will be well-integrated into the institutional activities and participate in regular team meetings, collaborating closely with the project leaders and other team members. The goal is to produce high-quality research that leads to academic publications. The position is intended for a duration of 4 years, with an optimal starting date of September 2026.

Profile

As the ideal candidate, you should:

• Be passionate about research that aims to solve real-world problems: You will have completed your degree with excellent grades and possess the potential to conduct high-quality research with keen attention to detail, striving for a positive impact.
• Excel at quantitative reasoning: You should have rigorous training in statistics, particularly in causal inference, and a solid command of Stata. A demonstrated interest in applied econometrics is essential.
• Hold a Master’s degree in Economics at the time of appointment: A strong interest in public economics, taxation, inequality, and labor economics is crucial.
• Possess excellent communication skills: You should be adept at verbal, written, and visual communication, enjoy collaboration, and exhibit a compelling writing style in English. Proficiency in German and/or French is an advantage, though not mandatory.

Additionally, we value diversity and encourage applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups.

Workplace

At KOF, you will be part of a dynamic research environment that values collaboration and innovation.

We Offer

• Your role will have a significant impact: Join ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also contributes positively to society.
• Expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports activities through ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, encouraging equal opportunities, valuing diversity, and fostering a respectful environment for all staff and students. For more information, visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is at our core, and we are steadfastly working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

If you meet the qualifications and are interested in this position, please apply online using the form below.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our exceptional education and cutting-edge research, we are dedicated to transferring knowledge directly into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to find sustainable solutions to today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.